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Just in time for holiday shopping, it’s our music critics’ annual look at the best recordings of 1996. Next week they will assess the best box sets of the year.

1. “Avalancha de Exitos,” Cafe Tacuba (Warner Bros. Mexico)

2. “Cuando Los Angeles Lloran,” Mana (WEA Latina)

3. “Suave Suave,” B-Tribe (Lava/Atlantic)

4. “Orixa,” Orixa (Aztlan)

5. “Bajo Presion,” La Polla Records (Grita!)